HC Deb 24 May 1939 vol 347 cc2438-9

A copy of every report made and notice served in accordance with the provisions of Parts III, V, and VI of this Act, other than a report or notice under Section eighteen, shall be sent immediately to the council of the administrative county in which the premises to which the report or notice relates are situated.—[Mr. Ede.]

Brought up, and read the First time.

10.4 p.m.

Mr. Ede

I beg to move, "That the Clause be read a Second time."

In the words of the Minister, I think this Clause is self-explanatory; but it may be as well if I say a few words in support of it. There is the keenest desire on the part of the local authorities that the ordinary citizen who may have to receive notices should not be worried by a multiplication of visits by, first, Government officials, and then by officials of the county council or the local authority. It is clear that, if that is to be avoided, there must be some arrangement for the interchange of reports between the authorities, and I sincerely hope that the Minister will be able to give some assurance on this matter.

10.6 p.m.

Mr. Elliot

I think I can give the hon. Member the assurance for which he asks, and I hope that in virtue of that he will not find it necessary to proceed with the new Clause. There is no objection as far as we are concerned to county councils being furnished with all the information as regards Part III and also Part V. I do not think that they need have actual reports. In the case of Part VI, I do not think it necessary to send them reports, but I hope that the hon. Gentleman will accept the assurance I have given and will not find it necessary to proceed with his new Clause.

Mr. Ede

In view of the explanation given by the Minister, I beg to ask leave to withdraw the Clause.

Motion and Clause, by leave, withdrawn.